Migraine and headache in childhood and adolescence

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2000 Jun;47(3):617-31. doi: 10.1016/s0031-3955(05)70229-7.

Abstract

Headache is one of the most common physical complaints of children and adults. The authors have provided definitions of headache, a classification system, diagnostic evaluations appropriate for children, and treatment options for patients with acute and chronic headache. Also, this article has emphasized the importance of diagnosing and treating migraine headache, a painful malady that is extensively underestimated and misdiagnosed in the pediatric population and one that can be treated acutely and when appropriate prophylactically with great success. Lack of a specific biologic marker, specific investigation, or brain imaging reduce these clinical entities too often to a psychological illness. Nonpharmacologic treatments are pivotal to manage chronic headaches. Migraine therapy, if administered early and through the appropriate route, could provide important and rapid relief.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Headache* / classification
  • Headache* / etiology
  • Headache* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders / etiology*
  • Migraine Disorders / therapy*
  • Recurrence